The Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Lactoferrin Nanoparticles on the Aflatoxin B1-induced Hepatotoxicity in Male Rats

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), one of the main types of aflatoxins, is the most dangerous and prevalent. Due to its side effect to the liver, AFB1 has been linked to an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. This study's goal was to assess how the nanoparticles of lactoferrin (LF) protects rat liver from the toxicity caused by aflatoxin B1, as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound.

Forty adult male Wistar rats (140-200g each) were divided into four groups of ten each: 1) A group of healthy animals; 2) healthy rats treated with PEE (50 mg/kg/day); 3) rats given Aflatoxin B1 (40 mg/kg/day) orally for six weeks; 4) rats injected with LF-NPs for six weeks after being intoxicated with AFB1.

The results showed that LF was successful in reducing AFB1-induced hepatotoxicity after six weeks of treatment. This was demonstrated by a significant decline in the serum ALAT, ASAT, GGT, ALP, TNF-α, IL-1β, CD4 and AFP levels, and hepatic MDA, NO, and DNA fragmentation.  Also, significant increase in the serum total protein and albumin, hepatic GSH, SOD, and CAT values were investigated. These effects were consistent with the structural restoration of the histological status of the liver.

It is possible to draw the conclusion that LF-NPs have been highly effective in reducing the oxidative stress caused by AFB1 and protecting the liver from its harmful effects. LF-NPs may be thought of as an exciting candidate for safeguarding the liver from the adverse effects of AFB1.